New Jersey summers can be brutally hot and humid, so it’s important to make sure your home has the right moisture balance for optimum comfort. The general rule among HVAC professionals is to dehumidify in the summer and humidify in the winter. If you are wondering if you need a dehumidifier, use this checklist below to determine if it’s time to invest in achieving balanced relative humidity in your home.
Benefits of Relative Humidity
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Humidity is defined as the percentage of water vapor in the air. The measurement of humidity may signal a summer rainstorm or a dewy morning. It is an essential feature of any climate. When controlled by a dehumidifier, there are numerous health and home benefits.
Controlled relative humidity benefits your health by:
- Relieving dry, chapped skin ailments
- Improving breathing
- Reducing sinus irritation
- Decreasing dry eyes
- Preventing bacteria from infecting your immune system
Balanced relative humidity also benefits your home in these ways:
- Prevents wood expansion and warping
- Protects leather cracking
- Prevents instrument warping
- Decreases mold growth
- Controls pest problems
- Optimizes temperature control of air
In New Jersey, humidity is at its highest in the spring and summer months. This is the best time to use your air conditioner and dehumidifier. In the fall and winter months, furnace heat can dry out the air in your home. During this time, you may want to humidify the air in your home to maintain a balance.
New Jersey Humidity Checklist
So, do you need a dehumidifier this summer? If any of these items apply to you, it may be time to invest in one to protect your health and home.
- Doors do not close all the way or get stuck
- Blackish debris (mold) appears on utility surfaces
- Condensation collects on windows or patio doors
- Mildew is a commonplace in your bathroom and/or kitchen
- You have “humidity hair” even when it’s not raining
- You experience nasal congestion in periods of high humidity
- You suffer from asthma or allergies regularly
- Your home always seems to be either too hot or too cold
- Musty smells or odors linger
- Water/mold spots appear in the ceiling or on walls
Maintain Moisture Balance
Excess humidity is a problem that will not go away on its own. If left unaddressed, your home could cultivate mold and bacteria. It is best to get a dehumidifier to maintain moisture balance.
Shop for the Right Sized Dehumidifier
When shopping for a new air conditioner, it is essential to choose a model that is appropriate for your home’s size. Today’s air conditioners come with variable speed technology that improves humidity control to better suit your needs. Some even have digital humidity thermometers built in so you can monitor relative humidity. For energy efficient models, look for the Energy Star logo.
Homes should aim for 40% humidity to maximize health and home benefits. Like any other air quality appliance, dehumidifiers require regular maintenance and care. If you need assistance optimizing air quality in your New Jersey home, Princeton Fuel Oil is happy to help. We are available 24/7, so contact us today!